That France, also, placed
herself on the side of our enemies could not surprise us. Too often
have our efforts to arrive at friendlier relations with the French
Republic come in collision with old hopes and ancient malice.
Honored Sirs: What human insight and power could do to arm a people
against the last extremities has been done with your patriotic
help. The hostility which has been smouldering for a long time in
the East and in the West has now burst into bright flames. The
present situation did not proceed from transient conflicts of
interest or diplomatic entanglements, it is the result of an ill
will which has for many years been active against the strength and
the prosperity of the German Empire. We are not incited by lust for
conquest, we are inspired by the unyielding determination to keep
for ourselves and all future generations the place which God has
given us.
From the proofs which have been given you, you will see how my
Government, and especially my Chancellor, strove up to the last
moment to avert the worst. We grasp the sword in compulsory
self-defense, with clean hands and a clean conscience.
To the peoples and races of the German Empire my call goes forth to
defend with all their strength and in brotherly co-operation with
our ally that which we have created by peaceful labor.
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